Catch My Breath

Contents

Lynn Montagano

Dedication

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

CHAPTER NINETEEN

CHAPTER TWENTY

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

Love Romance?

About HarperImpulse

Copyright

About the Publisher

Lynn Montagano

I’m a former TV news writer who took the plunge and finally wrote a novel. I know, right? Insanity. Prior to jumping into novel writing, I spent the majority of my career working in radio and television as a promotions director, writer and associate producer. I love any job that is challenging and creative.

I grew up in a small town in Rhode Island before spreading my wings to discover this great, big world. Traveling, like writing, has become a necessary part of my life. My favorite place is and always will be London. It’s my home away from home.

For now, I’m a displaced New Englander hanging my hat in Northern California. If you can see me through the fog, wave hello.

To my family and friends, for always being my biggest supporters and loudest cheerleaders.

And to my passport (yes, my passport), for opening up the world and introducing me to my favorite place on Earth.

CHAPTER ONE

“Amelia Grace Meyers. Naptime is over. Let’s go. We’re getting picked up at seven for the benefit. I don’t want to be late.”

The blankets were unceremoniously ripped from my body, destroying the warm cocoon I’d wrapped around myself. I sat up with a start, blinded by the bright light spilling from the bedside lamp. Grabbing the blankets, I flopped back onto the mattress.

“You’re mean,” I whined into the pillow, trying to figure out what the hell my best friend was talking about. And more importantly, where I was. I opened a sleepy eye and saw Stephanie Tempe, all perfumed and primped, standing at the foot of the bed. Oh right. Scotland.

“What time is it?” I yawned.

“Quarter past six. Get up.”

I crawled out of bed, shooting a half-hearted glare in her direction. Why I agreed to go to this event with her tonight was beyond me. I stumbled toward the bathroom, deftly avoiding the suitcases that were scattered in a schizophrenic maze on the floor. I’d been in Glasgow for twelve hours and still hadn’t technically seen the outside of this room. Who knew jet lag could be so vicious?

Twenty minutes - and a furious effort on my part to look presentable - later, our heels clicked in unison on the marble floor in the hotel lobby.

“You totally set a new record for getting ready,” Stephanie remarked as we waited for our ride. I nodded, yawning. When the black Land Rover arrived, I curled up on the seat, watching the streets of Glasgow streak by in a blob of color.

My brain finally sprang to life as I stepped onto the sidewalk, marveling at the hectic, excited energy surrounding me. I didn’t get dazzled easily, but this was shaping up to be a fun night. The stunning Victorian building glowed under the bright lights as scores of men and women dressed in their finest suits and gowns chatted amongst themselves. I stood in place, smitten with the old world charm of the city.

I knew I was smiling a bit too much, giving away my status as a tourist, but I couldn’t help it. The way the old buildings mingled with eye-popping steel and glass structures reminded me of New York. Only this version had a Scottish accent.

Taking a few steps to my right, I nearly stumbled off the curb. I steadied myself on the backend of a gray Mercedes SUV. Wake. Up. I tried to see if anyone was inside to witness my less than suave move, but couldn’t make out anything through the dark tint.

“Come on, Lia. Darren’s waiting for us inside.” Stephanie waved, immersing herself in the twinkling aura of elegance and waltzing toward the main doors. I snapped out of my daze and followed her.

We passed through a grand entrance hall with small domed ceilings covered in tiled mosaics. I was struck by the two massive staircases flanking either side. One was made out of white Carrara marble, while the other was a deep red. Multi colored and gold veins swirled around the staircase, giving it a darker, more alluring feel.

As I walked up the white marble stairs, I felt a twinge of disappointment that the other one led to a different part of the building. All that rich color seemed much more exciting.

We navigated our way through the crowd and found Darren MacCourty leaning against the bar. He looked rather dashing in a black suit and tie.

"Steph! Lia! You made it.” He engulfed Stephanie in a giant bear hug and swung her around a couple of times. After he put her down, he gave me a quick peck on each cheek.

"You ladies look gorgeous. Can I offer you something to drink? There’s champagne, wine and something called a Kilted Knight.” A Glaswegian accent danced around his words, much to my delight. He was our one-man welcoming committee for our extended Scottish vacation.

Stephanie opted for champagne while I chose the Kilted Knight. A delectable combination of peach, melon and mint yumminess floated over my taste buds.

“How’s the holiday going?” he asked as we walked to our table.

“Eh, it’s going. Lia’s been asleep since we got here,” Stephanie teased.

“Have a few more drinks.” Darren grinned at me. “You'll feel brand new. Never mind the sleep.”

“If you say so,” I said, smiling back. “Thanks for inviting us to this, by the way.”

“Ah, no worries. Probably not as exciting as the events you go to in Orlando, but it’s a good excuse for me to look sharp on the arms of two lovely lasses like yourselves.”

He winked, draping his arms around our shoulders. I laughed at his easy, boyish charm. I’d met him through Stephanie a few years ago, but he made me feel as though I’d known him forever.

“Looking for someone?” I followed his gaze through the room.

“Yeah. I wanted to introduce you both to one of my mates. He was supposed to meet us here. Probably buggered off to a dark corner to avoid the guests.”

“Is he single?” Stephanie grinned.

“That’s nice. Ask about the availability of others right in front of me,” Darren teased. “You can ask him tomorrow at the football match. Excuse me, soccer game.”

I got a kick out of watching them tease each other. There weren’t any romantic feelings, just an honest tight friendship that continued to get stronger no matter how far Glasgow and Orlando were from one another.

The three of us meandered around the room, chatting with some of Darren’s co-workers. They were intrigued by the “colonials,” as one of them put it. Stephanie ate up the attention. I was still so tired; taking a back seat to people watch seemed more appealing.

By the time we sat down for dinner, I was borderline comatose. Several people gave speeches and thanked everyone for their generous donations. Before the silent auction started, I excused myself to use the ladies’ room. One other woman was in there fixing her hair.

“I love your dress,” she said. “Where did you get it?”

“Neiman Marcus.”

“Are you Canadian?”

I shook my head, stifling a yawn. “American. I’m here on vacation.”

“Watch out for the local fellas. They’re rather sweet on American girls. Something about your accents.”

Bright white teeth appeared from behind her over-glossed lips. I wanted to believe she was being nice and welcoming, but I’d had enough experience engaging in high society bathroom small talk to know the difference.

“Thanks for the tip.”

After she left, I gave myself a once-over in the mirror, then made a pass at the bar for another drink.

My heel snagged on the carpet, sending me flying. I landed nose-first in a charcoal gray tailored Armani suit. Momentarily stunned, I clutched onto the toned arms that were wrapped around me. As I looked up my heart nearly stopped.

Wide emerald eyes fringed with long lashes gazed down at me with guarded curiosity. His sculpted mouth twisted into a cautious smile, softening his jawline.

“Are you alright?” he asked as he loosened his grip on me. His voice was rich and smooth, like a full-bodied wine. The English accent he had could charm the pants off a nun. It made me want to fall into his arms again.

I stepped back, smoothing down my dress. He didn’t look much older than thirty, but his worn eyes betrayed his youth.

“I’m fine. I’m not usually that clumsy. Sorry.”

His brows furrowed. “I kept telling them someone was going to stumble over that patch of carpet. You’re sure you’re okay?”

“Aside from my bruised ego and general lack of grace, I think I’ll be alright.” I smiled up at him in an effort to thwart the growing blush from creeping up my neck. I wasn’t the type who embarrassed easily and needed to regain some sort of composure. No luck.

His expression altered subtly as his stare intensified. Something shifted in the air between us. It was as though he’d tethered me with some freakishly strong invisible rope. My pulse quickened. I was caught smack dab in the middle of his magnetic pull without any means of escape.

Not that I wanted to get away. His tall frame filled out the suit with powerful elegance. The quiet control with which he held himself mirrored royalty. A tousled mass of thick, dark red hair framed chiseled features that would inspire Michelangelo. But it was those eyes that got me.

They were so astute, yet veiled. I wanted to know what was behind them.

“Would you like a drink?”

How he made such an innocent question sound so seductive was beyond me. His dark stare was unflinching. If I said no, he’d probably take it as a personal insult. And I did want another one of those fruity-minty drinks; I just couldn’t articulate the words.

“I hear the signature drink is rather good. Would you like that?”

“Yes, please,” I finally managed to say.

Forget my cheeks, my whole body flushed as I watched him move toward the bar. A silver cufflink glinted off his crisply pressed gray and white pinstriped shirt. I noticed he paired it with a solid gray tie before he caught me looking. A smile ghosted across his lips as his languid gaze traced my curves. I made a big deal out of inspecting the carpet for more hidden traps that my shoes could fall victim to.

He handed me the drink, my fingers brushing his when I clasped the glass. Against my better judgment I fell captive to his stare once more. Luckily, I remembered my manners and thanked him.

“My pleasure. Have you been enjoying yourself?”

“Yeah. Well, aside from making an ass of myself just now.”

A flash of white appeared revealing a dazzling smile. It was extremely sexy and charming. And dangerous. I felt myself falling deeper and deeper under his spell.

“Trust me, stumbling on a carpet is not the worst thing I’ve seen at these events.”

“No?”

“Stick around long enough and you just might see some of these well-dressed ladies toss off their shoes and throw some shapes when the band starts playing.” He grinned.

“Throw some what?”

“Dance.” His eyes flared with humor.

“You Brits and your crazy sayings,” I laughed.

“We like to keep you Americans on your toes.”

I took a long sip of my cocktail to prevent a stupid grin from spreading across my face.

“Don’t have too many of those. They’re rather potent.”

“But they’re so good. Don’t piss on my fireworks.” I smiled broadly.

A deep, throaty laugh filled the space between us.

“’Throwing shapes’ baffled you, but you know ‘piss on my fireworks?’”

“My sister only taught me the fun slang,” I laughed.

“Does she live here?”

“Not in Glasgow, no. She lives in London.”

“Well then, you’ll have to thank her for me,” he said, smoothing down his tie.

“Thank her for what?”

“Pretty Americans who know British slang are rare in these parts.”

“Interesting.” I looked up at him through my lashes.

“What?”

“Someone just warned me that you guys have a thing for American girls.”

His eyebrows arched. “And what did they say?”

“It has something to do with our accents.”

“You have an accent?” He angled toward me. “I hadn’t noticed.”

The way that he was looking at me caused me to completely forget my exhaustion. His dark eyes and sexy grin woke me up in more ways than one, pushing several of my hot buttons.

“Be careful,” he said, clasping the glass in my hand. “You don’t want to spill it all over your dress.”

Way to go. “You must think I’m a hot mess. First I take a nose-dive into your suit and now I’m dropping drinks.”

“Like I said, I’ve seen worse.”

The longer I held his gaze, the faster my heart raced. There was something…forbidden in the way he looked at me.

“I should probably get back to my friends.”

“Do you have to?”

A suffocating aura of want enveloped me. He was closer, dominating the space between us. Our quick, breezy exchange was light years away from the hazy, thick fog of desire that hung in the air. Get it together, Lia. Walk away.

“You’re rather deep in thought.”

I blinked. “Sorry.”

“Don’t apologize. I thought maybe I was boring you.”

A shrill ring sounded from his pocket. He fished out a cell phone, frowning at the screen.

“I have to take this.”

And just like that, I was pulled out of his engaging aura and plopped back into reality.

I plastered on a polite smile. “It’s okay. Thanks again for the drink.”

He nodded at me and answered the call before slipping off to a quiet corner. My head was so cloudy from the jet lag, the drinks and now that guy. I turned on my heel and trotted off to find Darren and Stephanie.

“There you are.” Stephanie stood up as I approached the table. “We were about to send out a search party.”

“Sorry. I got a little sidetracked.”

“You okay?”

“Yep. Why?”

“You have that deer-in-headlights look.” She stared at me intently. “You’re shaking. I thought we agreed there was to be no worrying about that loser while we’re on vacation?”

I attempted to steady my hands as I smoothed down the fitted silk bodice of my dress. “It’s not that, Steph. I’m just tired.”

“Really?”

“Really.”

“Excuse me, ladies? May I take your photograph for the foundation’s website?”

A young man with a camera bigger than his head stood in front of us, poised and ready. Not ones to turn down a picture, we posed for him. He thanked us and walked off to find some more willing subjects.

“I wish you had let me do your hair tonight. All that gorgeousness pulled into a ponytail makes me sad,” Stephanie pouted.

I frowned, playing with a few chestnut strands. “It’s fine. I was going for a simple look anyway since we were running late.”

“I would have done a nice French twist or something for you in the car.”

I couldn’t help but laugh at Stephanie’s distress over my hair. In her slinky, full-length ice blue gown, she was the epitome of effortless glamour. The dress matched her eye color perfectly and contrasted with her short, jet-black hair. She was one of those girls who would look fabulous in a trash bag. At twenty-nine, she was a couple years older than me.

“You’re doing everyone’s hair next week for the wedding. I can go one night without a fancy up-do.”

“Fine,” she relented.

“Is it fun seeing Darren again? It’s been, what, two years or something since you’ve seen him, right? I’m surprised he remembered what you looked like.” I grinned.

“Smart ass. I’ve known him since I was sixteen. He could pick me out of one of those Where’s Waldo things. Blindfolded.”

“I could pick you out of one of those things blindfolded. You’d never be caught wearing horizontal stripes.”

We linked arms and went to check out the silent auction. Darren was already scrutinizing one of the tables when we found him. We spent a good chunk of the evening ogling all the luxurious items that were up for auction; a weekend for two in Paris, wine tasting in Tuscany, spa getaways and a number of other items that were extremely tempting.

“A group of us are thinking of going to The Living Room. This event is a bit boring. Do you two want to come?”

I was vaguely aware of Darren’s question. My thoughts were still tangled around my encounter at the bar.

“Hello. Earth to Lia,” Stephanie sang out. “Do you want to come out with us? Or would you rather go back to the suite and catch up on your beauty sleep?”

“Where are you guys going?”

“The Living Room. It’s a trendy lounge and nightclub. Right up your alley. Fancy cocktails and all that,” Darren said.

“Um, sure. Why not. I have to kick this exhaustion at some point, right?” I kept scanning the room for the nameless, stumble-rescuing, aesthetically pleasing Knight In Shining Armani. He seemed to have disappeared. To say I was sad was beyond an understatement.

Darren escorted us out to our waiting Land Rover. It was still parked behind the gray Mercedes SUV I almost fell onto earlier. The blonde girl from the bathroom was standing next to it. She looked annoyed but brightened when she saw Darren.

“Hi, Mac. I was hoping to bump into you tonight.”

“Hey, Sarah. Lovely to see you,” he addressed her politely, and then turned to us. ”Stephanie, Lia, this is Sarah Everett. She’s the vice president at my agency.”

“Pleasure to meet you,” she smiled. “Lia, you’re the girl I met earlier, right? Nice to see you again.”

She fixed her gaze on Darren.

“Where are you all off to?”

“Out for a quick bevvie. We’re trying to help Lia overcome jet lag by keeping her out as late as possible.” Darren slung his arm around my shoulders and grinned. “Waiting for someone?”

“Aren’t I always? Have you—”

“Good evening, Miss Everett.” A well-dressed man walked over to us from the Mercedes. I assumed he was the driver but his imposing frame made me think he could easily pass for a bodyguard. He smiled at me before continuing to address Sarah. “Sorry you’ve been waiting for so long, but he’s still tied up with some clients. He says to call him at the office on Monday if you’d like to discuss the marketing plan regarding the new acquisitions.”

Sarah’s face fell. “Oh. Alright. Thank you, Paxton.” She glanced at us, waved and walked off.

“Good to see you, Mr. MacCourty.” He shook hands with Darren.

“Ah, stop with the formalities, Pax. My dad is Mr. MacCourty.”

“Fair enough,” he laughed. “Have a good night.”

As he retreated back to his car, Darren opened the rear passenger door of the Land Rover for us to climb in. I yawned for the zillionth time.

“You sure you’re up for this Lia? We can go back to the hotel.” Stephanie half looked at me while fixing her hair in the rear view mirror.

“I’ll be alright. Another hour or so and … ”

Noticing the tall toned figure of a man, I shut up abruptly. Walking at a fast clip, he slipped through the crowd on the sidewalk like a ghost and climbed into the Mercedes. It was my handsome mystery guy.

CHAPTER TWO

Kanye West kept trying to convince me that what doesn’t kill me, would make me stronger as I jogged along the streets of Glasgow on Saturday morning. It was by no stretch of the imagination a warm April day. A chill hung in the air, wrapping its frozen fingers around the city. It reminded me of the brisk spring mornings in Connecticut, where I grew up. I inhaled the frosty air, daring it to freeze out my lungs as I ran. It was a good way to keep myself honest, seeing as I’d been living in the sweltering heat of Florida for five years. One could get very used to the luxury of warm weather all the time.

Our hotel had a gym, but I preferred the outdoors. I loved to run. It was something I picked up in college as a stress reliever during midterms. Other kids drank; I ran. I often wished I could run right out of my skin sometimes. The escape was wonderful.

Some of my favorite moments were spent running along Cocoa Beach early on a summer morning. But that was with him. Thinking about those days brought back a flood of memories that I tried not to dwell upon. When things were good, they were great. Then it all went down in flames. I swallowed hard against the sandpapery lump that fought its way up my throat. I packaged the memories and shoved them to the back of my mind.

I jogged for a little more than a half mile before I came upon a clearing. A huge manicured field stretched out to my left. About seven or eight young boys were playing soccer on one end. A flurry of activity at the far end caught my attention, so I slowed my pace to a brisk walk.

A group of guys was playing rugby. I’d never actually seen the game played in person before, so I walked to the edge of the field. But it was just my luck that the match had ended. The guys all clapped one another on the back and chatted amongst themselves as they grabbed their gym bags. As I got closer, one of them looked right at me. The force of his stare stopped me in my tracks.

He walked over in long, graceful strides. Sunlight glinted off his dark red hair, accentuating the chocolate flecks. Oh wow, it’s him. I lowered the music and hastily wiped sweat from my cheeks.

“Well, hello.” His rich, velvety voice swirled around me.

I swallowed hard. “Hi.”

“I thought you looked familiar. Had any more encounters with wayward carpets since last night?”

“No. I walk exclusively on hardwood now.”

“Wise choice.”

Without the benefit of my high heels, he towered over me. He was hot even with mud caked on his clothes. And wow, did he smell good. Traces of cologne still lingered on him mixed with his post-game sweat and pheromones. It was so intoxicating I had to look away. When I focused on him again, he was studying me with the same guarded curiosity as last night. Part of me wished I wasn’t a hot, sweaty mess.

“I’m afraid I didn’t catch your name,” he said with a small grin.

“Oh. I’m Amelia Meyers. But please, call me Lia.”

“Pleasure to meet you, Amelia.” My name rolled off his tongue readily, like he’d been born to say it for all eternity. “What brings you to Glasgow?”

“A wedding.”

He slung a gym bag over his shoulder, grasping the strap. The small movement caused his muscles to flex.